Bullying is a fixture in the classroom. Many students and children fear their bullies and find it is not the difficult to remember a bully in their school. Cyberbuillying has recently emerged and is booming. Students and children cannot escape it due the impersonal nature of online communication.
Schools have a role in preventing cyberbuillying and are thus the best line of communication for the following 10 reasons.
1. Teach respect:
Schools are well situated to instill respect in students. Many programs like Tribes are designed to form mutual respect in the classroom and in schools. Character Education is another one that could be implemented. Students are rewarded for good behaviour and for following good character traits.
2. Schools interact with students:
Students are in school for 40 hours a week. They spend more time with their teachers than with their parents. Teachers act as a role model and should work to interact with students to teach them the right from the wrong.
3. Civic & Social Development:
Schools also have the responsibility for the civic and social development of their students. Brown vs. Education Supreme Court case recognized the importance of opening up students to the differing cultural values.
4. See first signs:
Schools usually are the ones who witness the first signs of bullying. There are other underlying reasons which sometimes lead to bullying online. They usually occur in person at first.
5. Punish & Prevent:
Iowa Law Review argues that teachers and administrators are appropriate actors for punishing and preventing cyber bullying. At times it is hard to identify the cases unless the victim speaks to a staff member.
6. Change course:
Teachers have the power to change course. They have been empowered and entrusted with the ability to transform people and educate them into being exemplary citizens. If cyber bullying signs are scene, they must adjust and monitor accordingly. Maybe have a lesson on character to reiterate expectations.
7. Teach netiquettes:
When teaching etiquettes in primary grades, teachers should also teach netiquettes. Respect should be given to all individuals whether offline or online.
8. Resources:
Schools also have the resources and can go through the training to help parents keep an eye over cyber bullying. Conferences such as Facebook 101 are ways schools give back to the community for their support.
9. Identify the triggers:
There is a discrepancy regarding what is cyber bullying. Teachers are good role models and should influence their students to know when to stop.
10. Partnership:
It is a partnership. The more eyes the better.
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